Szögmér

Szögmér, also known as a protractor in many languages, is a measuring instrument used to measure and construct angles. It is commonly employed in geometry, technical drawing, engineering, and carpentry. A szögmér typically consists of a flat base or arc marked with a scale of angular units and a pivot or center point for aligning with the vertex of an angle.

The most common forms are semicircular protractors, which measure angles from 0 to 180 degrees, and full-circle protractors, which measure from 0 to 360 degrees. Some models feature inner and outer scales to simplify reading angles in different orientations. Protractors may be made from plastic, metal, or glass, and may be transparent to allow visibility of the drawing beneath. Modern variants include digital protractors that display the measured angle on a screen and vernier protractors that provide higher precision.

To measure an angle, the vertex is placed at the protractor’s center or pivot, and one side of the angle is aligned with the baseline or zero mark. The reading is taken at the intersection with the other side of the angle. To draw an angle, the baseline is aligned with one side, and the second ray is marked at the corresponding degree measurement, then drawn from the vertex.

Etymology: szögmér is derived from szög (angle) and mérő (measuring device). The term reflects its primary function of measuring angles, with widespread use in education and profession.